We live in fragile times. There are more than 40 million Americans that suffer from a mental health condition. Maybe it is our lifestyle or work culture, but the staggering number clearly calls out for us to make some changes. PTSD or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental condition that affects people who have witnessed or experienced a traumatic incident like a violent assault, war, serious accident, natural disaster, or a terrorist act.
Earlier, PTSD was only associated with war veterans. But gradually, people understood that it could happen to anyone. The condition affects almost 3.5 percent of American adults that means one in every eleven Americans is diagnosed with PTSD atleast once in his lifetime. Statistics show that women are twice more susceptible to the condition than men.
Symptoms of PTSD
People who have post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD often experience intrusive thoughts like distressing dreams and flashbacks of the incident. These flashbacks can be very vivid and may even feel like you are reliving that moment again. Negative thoughts and feelings corrode the mind and people often feel much less interested in activities that they previously enjoyed. Also, people with PTSD become irritable and behave recklessly or in a self-destructive way.
Medical Marijuana For Treatment
Cannabis has made quite a journey from being considered as an immoral part of the society to now getting legalized in most of the states in the country. And deservedly so! Cannabis has proven to be effective in the treatment of several conditions, including PTSD.
In 2014, the New York State passed the Compassionate Care Act that legalized cannabis for medical use. The medical marijuana program allows people suffering from severe medical conditions to use marijuana for their treatment. All you need is a medical marijuana card in new york to access quality MMJ products to manage your health.
Chemical compounds in cannabis called cannabinoids show therapeutic effects for people with PTSD. CBD and THC are the two main cannabinoids found in the plant. While CBD is responsible for its medicinal benefits, THC concentrates more on the psychoactive effects of cannabis. Cannabis is known to provide relief from conditions like anxiety, pain, and insomnia, which makes it more effective in treating PTSD.
Cannabis will help you relax and get your mind off the stress. PTSD often leads to a change in appetite and sleeping patterns. The plant helps regulate these as well. So, if you feel you suffer from PTSD, approach a licensed doctor, and get yourself a medical marijuana card in New York.
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in New York
Yes, it is legal to use cannabis for medical use. And all you require is a medical marijuana card to buy the herb legally. With telemedicine, the process has become convenient, inexpensive, and easy. Fill an online application and get connected with a medical health professional via video call. If the doctor feels you qualify for the medical marijuana program, then you will receive your medical marijuana card through email within a few minutes. And once you receive this certification, you are required to register with the New York Department of Health. Voila! Now, you are a valid medical marijuana patient and are entitled to buy cannabis in the state legally.
But these benefits come at a cost. Medical marijuana is legal in New York, but you still can’t light a smoke. Wait! But you still get to access a plethora of other canna products like capsules, oral sprays, vaporization, and oils. Find what you feel most suitable and manage your condition effectively.
Bottomline
Cannabinoids like CBD can empower your body’s endocannabinoid system and promote your overall wellbeing. PTSD affects every individual uniquely. Its devastating effects can leave you mentally and physically in shambles. Cannabis can help patients regain control and hold of their lives. One of the most important things is to identify and acknowledge that you are suffering from PTSD. Most people don’t get treated because they try and ignore their symptoms. If you feel any of your loved ones or even yourself suffer from the condition, approach a mental health professional. Getting timely help and support is essential or things may turn for worse.